The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence supporting his allegation. In fact, the Police invite VDM specifically to obtain more details and clarity on his statements. He had claimed that some police officers at checkpoints collaborate with kidnappers.
According to The Punch, the Force responded to remarks VDM made during the recent Nigerian Bar Association conference. The event took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where Police invite VDM became a trending topic on social media.
Police demand evidence
During the conference, VDM alleged that some officers stationed along major highways could identify travellers considered financially capable. Additionally, he claimed they pass information about these individuals to kidnappers.
The police described the allegation as serious and unsubstantiated. It is therefore not surprising that Police invite VDM to officially address and investigate the claims.
Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu said claims of such gravity require evidence. Therefore, he asked the activist to present whatever information he possesses.
The Force said any credible evidence supplied by VDM would be investigated urgently.
Police defend checkpoint officers
Police authorities also defended officers deployed to checkpoints, saying their responsibilities include preventing crime and protecting road users.
The Force noted that police personnel themselves have repeatedly been attacked and killed by terrorists, kidnappers and other armed criminals.
It added that individual officers found guilty of compromising their duties would face disciplinary measures and prosecution.
VDM earlier apologised to military
VDM’s remarks at the NBA conference had already generated controversy after he made broad allegations against security agencies.
Military representatives challenged him during the conference, prompting the activist to apologise. He clarified he was sorry for appearing to generalise his accusations against the Armed Forces. As a result, the ongoing debate about whether the Police invite VDM for a thorough inquiry is gaining public interest.
The latest police invitation now places attention on whether VDM has evidence to support his specific claim. This claim involves officers and kidnappers.
The Force urged Nigerians with credible information about misconduct to present it through appropriate channels for investigation.
